Is it possible they thought the RAT would carry them through the problem?
From an unamed source.
The 757 operations manual states the following:
"The ram air trubine (RAT) hydralic pump is located in the body fairing
aft of the right main gear. Inflight the RAT automatically deploys into
the airstream when airspeed is above 80 knots and both engines fail. The
RAT then supplies power to the center system. Once extended, the RAT can
only be retracted on the ground. At speeds above 130 knots, the RAT pro-
vides adequate power for normal center syste[ operation. A Ram Air Turbine
Pressure Light indicates the RAT is providing hydraulic power. The UNLKD
light indicates teh RAT is not locked in the stowed position. Manual control
for extending the RAT is provided by the guarded Ram Air Turbine Switch."
The center hydralic system includes the center autopilot servos, spoilers,
elevators, rudder, yaw dampers, stab trim, and elevator feel. Note that it
doesn't handle the landing gear.